What is first aid when exposed to white phosphorus? | health

White phosphorus is a substance used for military purposes in hand grenades and artillery shells for the purpose of illumination, generating a smoke screen, and as an incendiary substance. What is first aid when exposed to it?

White phosphorus (sometimes called yellow) is a waxy solid that ranges between white and yellow in color and has a garlic-like odor, according to the World Health Organization.

White phosphorus ignites spontaneously in the air at temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, and continues to burn until it is completely oxidized or until it is deprived of oxygen. Burning phosphorus produces thick, white, irritating smoke containing a mixture of phosphorus oxides.

Harmful effects of white phosphorus

White phosphorus is harmful regardless of how it is exposed. It can be absorbed in toxic amounts by ingestion or skin exposure. The smoke resulting from burning phosphorus is also harmful to the eyes and respiratory system, as phosphorus oxides decompose in moisture into phosphoric acids. Effects may be delayed for up to 24 hours after exposure.

Heart disorders

In cases of severe exposure, late effects can include cardiovascular disorders and cardiovascular collapse, as well as kidney and liver damage, decreased level of consciousness, and coma. Death may occur due to shock, liver or kidney failure, or damage to the central nervous system or heart muscle, according to the World Health Organization.

Skin burns

Exposure to white phosphorus may cause severe burns. The burns are extremely painful and result from a combination of thermal and chemical injuries. Affected areas of exposed skin may appear yellow.

White phosphorus is highly soluble in fats. Therefore, it may penetrate underlying tissue leading to deep, slow-healing burns, according to the World Health Organization.

White phosphorus particles that have penetrated the skin may begin to burn when the wound is opened and exposed to air. White smoke resulting from burning phosphorus can be seen emanating from the wounds.

Eye

White phosphorus particles may cause burns and corneal perforation. Exposure to smoke resulting from burning phosphorus may cause eye irritation, blepharospasm, photophobia, tearing, and conjunctivitis.

Breathing

Smoke from burning phosphorus may cause upper respiratory tract irritation, cough, headache, and delayed onset pulmonary edema.

How do you behave when exposed to white phosphorus?

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, initial treatment is primarily supportive. In cases of skin or eye exposure, this includes the immediate removal of burning white phosphorus particles from the victim’s eyes or skin. If the skin or eyes are contaminated with white phosphorus, cover them with a cool, wet cloth to avoid re-ignition.

There is no “antidote” for white phosphorus toxicity.

First aid when the eye is exposed to white phosphorus

• Immediately remove the victim from the source of exposure.
• Immediately flush eyes with large amounts of cold water for at least 15 minutes.
• Keep exposed eyes covered with wet compresses to prevent white phosphorus particles from “re-igniting.”
• Avoid using greasy or oily ointments that may increase the absorption of white phosphorus.
• Consider wearing an “eye cage”; To prevent direct pressure on the eyeball.
• Seek medical attention immediately.

First aid when inhaling white phosphorus

• Immediately remove the victim from the source of exposure.
• Assess respiratory function and pulse.
• Make sure the victim has an unobstructed airway.
• If shortness of breath occurs or breathing is difficult (dyspnea), give oxygen.
• If breathing stops (apnea), provide artificial respiration.
• Monitor the victim for signs of whole-body effects, and administer symptomatic treatment as necessary.
• Seek medical attention immediately.

First aid when skin is exposed to white phosphorus

• Immediately remove the victim from the source of exposure.
• Immerse affected skin areas in cold water or cover them with wet bandages at all times.
• Vigorous washing with cold water is the best way to remove white phosphorous from the skin.
• Remove visible particles of white phosphorus while washing with large amounts of cold water or while immersing the area in cold water.
• The use of cold water is crucial, but care must also be taken to protect the victim from hypothermia.
• Avoid using greasy or oily ointments that may increase the absorption of white phosphorus.
• Monitor the victim for signs of marks on the entire body.
• Seek medical attention immediately.

General advice when dealing with white phosphorus victims

The World Health Organization says that the patient should be removed from the exposure area, and then his clothing and personal belongings should be carefully removed, bearing in mind that contaminated clothing can catch fire or ignite again; Therefore, contaminated items should be placed in a sealable container filled with water and clearly labeled as hazardous materials. The skin should be rinsed and washed with cold water and the exposed areas should be kept wet.

If the eyes are exposed to white phosphorus or smoke resulting from the use of white phosphorus, the eyes should first be flushed with plenty of water or 0.9% saline solution for 10-15 minutes (removing contact lenses if this can be done easily). The use of a local anesthetic will reduce eyelid spasm and aid in washing, but washing should not be delayed if anesthetic is not available.

If there are particles of phosphorus in the eyes, the eyelids should be turned over and the particles removed while continuing to wash. The removed particles should be placed under water in a container, a complete eye examination should be performed and the victim should be urgently referred to an ophthalmologist if there is evidence of infection.